Pension Chez Mel

A quiet little haven, and just what we needed. Mel was lovely and so attentive, the place was spotless, and it’s close to both the town center and a small supermarket. We spent three nights there and really enjoyed the excellent food, with portions that felt restaurant-sized. Wishing you all the best ahead 🫶🏻 Alexa & Pierre

The taxi deal for the airport was a nice extra, and when the tsunami warning came, Mel found a way for us to get through the night without problems. In person she was much more helpful than over email, where her advice on island activities was pretty limited and she suggested looking online. She was kind throughout my seven-night stay, including when wasps got into my room. Ants got into my suitcase twice, though, and she couldn’t find a fix for that. Thanks, Mel, for having me on the island.

It’s peaceful here and within walking distance of a shop, which is why I picked it for the low price. We didn’t have drinking water or hot water. After using the toilet, we had to ask for soap to wash our hands. Mel didn’t offer much information about the island and said, “it’s all in the booklet,” though she did help us get a contact for another excursion.

We were there for six nights but barely spent time at the guesthouse beyond breakfast. It costs less, but the equipment and cleanliness were both quite limited. Our room faced the terrace, so there was no privacy, and there weren’t enough chairs or cutlery for everyone. The shared bathroom has one toilet for all guests, which means waiting if six people are showering in the morning. Without transport, the village is a long way off, about a 30-minute walk, though there is a store nearby.